Without a doubt, living in base is the single most significant QOL factor there is. It trumps a lot of things, including significant differences in pay. There is NOTHING like sitting reserve at home when you are junior. Or by choice when senior when you want a break.

Either be in a stage of life where you can be mobile, and happy to pick up and move, or go for the place most likely to have a long term base close to your home, ideally within short call reserve callout.